Cole Palmer has opened up on Mauricio Pochettino’s departure following just one season in charge at Stamford Bridge, admitting “everyone loved him.”
Pochettino’s departure was announced last week following an end of season of review, and the club have moved quickly in the subsequent days to agree a deal with Leicester City for Enzo Maresca to become their new manager.
Chelsea finished the season strongly with five wins on the bounce to secure a top six finish, but will be playing in the Europa Conference League as Manchester United won the FA Cup.
Palmer opens up on Pochettino departure
Despite all the difficulties at Chelsea last season, particularly with injuries to key players Palmer stood out in his first season of regular Premier League football.
The 22-year-old thrived under the Argentine scoring 22 goals and providing 11 assists in the league which saw him named as Premier League Young Player of the Year.
After Pochettino’s departure Palmer was one of a number of players to take to social media to thank the 52-year-old.
The versatile forward has now shared his thoughts on Pochettino’s departure and how much he helped him improve his game.
“When he first came he installed the foundations and made sure everyone knew what was required”, he told The Sun.
“Then he started to teach us what he wanted to do, but first, we needed that base.
“As a man-manager, he would push you if you slacked off.
“He’s been really good for me, he kept me relaxed and we had a really good relationship.”
Palmer also opened up on Chelsea’s injuries and how he felt Pochettino had a tough job.
“He had a tough job, half the team has been injured, some very important players too, so it’s been difficult for him.
“But everyone loved him, all the players did and he’s been very important for me as well.”
Palmer is currently preparing for England’s upcoming friendlies against Bosnia and Herzegovina and Iceland before Gareth Southgate narrows his provisional 33 man squad down to a final 26 for the Euros.
